Tramp ants are a diverse group of aggressive, invasive ant species that can rapidly establish and spread if introduced. Several species of tramp ants are amongst the most serious global invasive pests.

Australia’s environmental, economic, and social wellbeing are threatened by these ants, some of which have already been introduced and established in Australia.

Tramp ants can reduce species diversity and modify habitat structure, and have the potential to severely impact human health and social amenity.

Several species of tramp ants have painful stings which can cause anaphylactic shock in some people.

Pets, livestock, and native animals may also be severely affected by bites and stings.

Ants may eat plants and chew through electrical insulation, and their nest building can damage machinery and buildings.

Tramp ant infestations may also impact on agriculture and forestry. Some species farm sap-sucking scale insects for honeydew. This can lead to larger infestations of pests on host plants, resulting in their death. This also increases the risk of disease being transmitted to plants through these insect vectors.

How to identify Tramp ants

Everyone needs to keep an eye out for tramp ants.

The most likely pathway for tramp ants to be introduced to Australia is with imported cargo and travellers. Ants can be moved in

containers

soil

plants

timber

machinery

even by passengers carrying plant matter or in luggage.

They are found in ships, planes and a range of goods. Tramp ants are

often difficult to distinguish from native ants, as most species are tiny (under 5 millimeters)

have a classic ant body shape

do not construct obvious nests.

Although the species vary substantially, they all have the ability to rapidly disperse and adapt to varied habitats.

Certain tramp ant species can form super colonies with multiple queens that allow rapid and extensive colonisation.

Some spread by budding, where new colonies radiate out from existing colonies, or by winged ants flying from the colony.

Importers

If you work around imported goods you need to look for tramp ants on:

crates

machinery

plant material

shipping containers

conveyances

Growers and home gardeners

Moving items out of your backyard, including pot plants, can be an easy way for tramp ants to move to new locations. These items should always be checked if you are in an area known to have a tramp ant population. Take action if you see signs of tramp ant infestation.

Keep Tramps ants out of Australia

All Australians and international tourists have a role to keep out exotic pests and diseases.

Australia remains free of many tramp ants, and most of the ones that have been introduced are restricted in distribution and are under eradication or management. We need your help to keep tramp ants out and to control the species that are here.

Check what you can and cannot bring into Australia, whether you are a:

Import restrictions and biosecurity measures

Be aware of any tramp ant biosecurity measures that may be in place for incoming goods and conveyances.
Industry advice notices are reviewed regularly and could change.

Secure any suspect specimens

Containment is critical. If you suspect you’ve seen a tramp ant, take a photo and record the location.

Report detections of exotic pests

Any detections of tramp ants must be reported to authorities.

Import community

If you receive or work around goods imported from overseas, including mail, you need to be vigilant to tramp ants and other exotic pests. If you see an unusual pest, secure the goods to limit the movement of the pest and immediately report it to the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
See.Secure.Report. Hotline 1800 798 636 or by using the
online form.

Growers and home gardeners

If you see tramp ants or anything unusual, report it to the
Exotic Plant Pest Hotline 1800 084 881. This will put you in touch with the Department of Primary Industries or agriculture in your state or territory.

When reporting your concern, you will be given advice on handling the specimens and what to do next until an officer can investigate.

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.